In the quest to keep our planet green and our streets clean, local councils across Australia have been implementing various strategies to encourage proper waste disposal and recycling habits among residents.

However, one council's approach has sparked controversy and left a Melbourne street feeling collectively 'insulted' by what has been dubbed as 'bin shaming'.



The incident unfolded in Essendon, where a routine bin collection day became a neighbourhood talking point.

Kali, a local mum, had performed her weekly ritual of taking out the bins and went off to grab a coffee, unaware of the surprise that awaited her upon return.


Each bin, including hers, had been adorned with a conspicuous yellow tag bearing the words 'oh no' in bold red letters, a public reprimand for incorrect recycling practices.

‘We found items that don't belong in your mixed recycling bin,’ the note read. The tags, which were attached to nearly every bin on the street, specified the issue—in Kali's case, 'reusable shopping bags' were the culprits.

The City of Moonee Valley Council's website clearly states 'NO bagged items' in the recycling bin, but it doesn't specify whether this rule applies to paper bags as well as plastic, leaving room for confusion.

Kali, who has lived in her home for over nine years, expressed her bemusement at the council's tactic, finding humour in the situation despite feeling a bit 'bin shamed'.

'I thought it was funny that I got bin shamed. I'm sure we're all guilty of [recycling incorrectly], it's an easy mistake,' she said.

‘Our whole street was embarrassed about it,’ she added, saying ‘other neighbours were more offended’ than she was.



While the council's move surprised residents, it was not without precedent.

Other Melbourne councils, such as Merri-bek and Yarra Ranges, have employed similar methods, including 'random bin inspections' and emoticon-based feedback tags, to educate and motivate residents about recycling.

Sydney's Inner West Council has also used sticker reminders on bin lids to inform residents of collection schedule changes.

A spokesperson for the City of Moonee Valley Council explained that the intention behind the tags.

‘Council’s intention is to provide information to people at their homes through our kerbside bin education program to create more awareness, so everyone in the community can recycle right,’ the spokesperson said.

‘We understand that recycling can be confusing and that there may be a misunderstanding in what can and can’t go into a recycling bin.’



Despite the initial shock, Kali admitted that the incident sparked a conversation on social media and prompted her to be more mindful about recycling.

'It's got people talking, and it will make me think a bit more about what I'm recycling, and I'll be more diligent,' she conceded.
Have you experienced 'bin shaming' in your area? Do you think it's an effective way to encourage proper recycling, or does it miss the mark? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!